Partially, tattoos are accepted at Kurama Onsen, but only in private baths—not public bath areas.
Kurama Onsen (くらま温泉) offers a perfect mountain escape just 30 minutes from downtown Kyoto, where centuries-old cedar forests create a mystical backdrop for your bathing experience. This traditional hot spring is nestled along the scenic Kurama-Kibune hiking trail, creating an ideal harmony of natural rejuvenation and spiritual exploration near the historic Kurama-dera Temple founded in 770 CE.
While many traditional onsen in Japan maintain strict no-tattoo policies, Kurama Onsen represents the changing landscape of Japanese bathing culture, where travelers can experience authentic hot spring traditions amid the sacred mountains that have drawn pilgrims and nature lovers for centuries.
Private Bathing Allowed: While Kurama Onsen does not explicitly advertise a tattoo-friendly policy for their public baths, they offer private bath (kashikiri-buro) options that provide a guaranteed tattoo-friendly experience for all visitors. We recommend booking a private bath in advance to ensure availability.
- Mountain Sanctuary: Immerse yourself in therapeutic waters surrounded by ancient cedar forests and mountain vistas
- Cultural Connection: Combine your soak with visits to Kurama-dera Temple and experience the area's rich spiritual heritage
- Accessible Adventure: Just 30 minutes from central Kyoto, yet worlds away from urban bustle
- Hiking Integration: Perfect relaxation point along the popular Kurama-Kibune trail
- Seasonal Beauty: Stunning maple foliage in autumn and refreshing forest air in summer
- Traditional Experience: Authentic Japanese bathing culture in a historic mountain setting
Onsen Facilities & Amenities
Bathing Experience & Onsen Etiquette
At Kurama Onsen, the indoor baths provide a traditional soaking experience, while the rotemburo (open-air baths) allow you to connect with nature as you immerse yourself in steaming waters while gazing at the forested slopes of Mount Kurama. The mineral-rich waters contain natural sulfates and bicarbonates that leave your skin remarkably soft while soothing tired muscles—particularly welcome after hiking the Kurama-Kibune trail.
The water temperature ranges from 40-42°C (104-107.6°F), hitting that perfect balance of heat that melts away tension without overwhelming your senses. Many travelers report that the combination of mountain air, forest phytoncides (natural aromatherapy from trees), and mineral waters creates a deeply restorative experience that addresses both physical and mental fatigue.
Prices & Ticket Options
- Day use public bath: ¥1,000 per adult
- Private bath reservation: ¥2,500 for 45 minutes (1-4 people)
- Bath towel rental: ¥150
- Small towel purchase: ¥300
- Ryokan overnight stay: Starting from ¥18,000 per person (includes dinner, breakfast and bath access)
Booking & Contact Information
For tattooed travelers, we strongly recommend booking a private bath in advance, especially during autumn foliage season (November) and weekends when demand peaks.
🌐 Website: http://www.kurama-onsen.co.jp/ (Japanese only)
📞 Phone: +81 75-741-2131
📍 Address: 520 Kurama Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 601-1111, Japan
Opening Hours
- Check-in: 15:00
- Check-out: 10:00
Guest Reviews from Tattooed Travellers
🚆 Kyoto Station → 🚇 Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan → 🚃 Transfer to Eizan Line → 🚃 Kurama Station → 🚶 10-minute uphill walk to onsen
🏙️ Downtown Kyoto → 🚃 Eizan Line from Demachiyanagi Station → 🚃 Kurama Station → 🚶 10-minute uphill walk to onsen
🥾 Hikers → 🚃 Kibune-guchi Station → 🥾 2-hour hike over Mount Kurama → 🏞️ Kurama Onsen (perfect mid-hike bathing break)
Map
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